Harvard Essay Examples from Admitted Student
ARJUN
Harvard has long recognized the importance of enrolling a diverse student body. How will the life experiences that shape who you are today enable you to contribute to Harvard?
When my family moved from a large city to a small town, I felt out of place at first. The new school was smaller, and most students had known each other for years. I found connection through a community robotics club. Kids from different schools and backgrounds came together to build and test ideas.
Later, I helped organize workshops at our library so younger students could experiment with simple coding and circuits. Many of them had never tried anything like it before, and watching their excitement reminded me of how important access is.
These experiences showed me that diversity isn’t just about who’s in the room, but about making sure everyone feels welcome to participate. At Harvard, I would contribute by encouraging inclusion in academic and extracurricular spaces, so that more voices and perspectives are part of the conversation.
Describe a time when you strongly disagreed with someone about an idea or issue. How did you communicate or engage with this person? What did you learn from this experience?
In ninth grade, a close friend insisted climate change was exaggerated and that individual choices made no difference. I disagreed strongly, but I didn’t want our conversations to turn into shouting matches.
Instead, I asked why he felt that way. He explained that his family ran a small business and worried about regulations. That perspective helped me understand his resistance—it wasn’t denial, it was fear of losing stability.
I shared examples of local actions that worked, like when our school’s recycling program reduced waste or when families carpooled to games. Small choices mattered when multiplied across a community.
We never fully convinced each other, but we learned to listen. I realized that disagreeing doesn’t mean dismissing. Respectful dialogue can bridge divides, even if agreement doesn’t follow. That lesson has shaped how I handle conflict—with patience and empathy, not just arguments.
Briefly describe any of your extracurricular activities, employment experience, travel, or family responsibilities that have shaped who you are.
Every summer, I volunteer at a day camp for kids with disabilities. I help with activities like swimming, crafts, and outdoor games. At first, I thought of myself as just a helper, but I quickly realized I was also learning.
One camper loved drawing but rarely spoke. I began sitting with him during art sessions, and over time he started explaining his pictures. Those moments showed me the power of patience and consistency. Another camper taught me how humor could ease difficult situations.
The camp gave me perspective on resilience. Even when tasks were hard, the campers approached them with joy and determination. Their attitude inspired me to reframe challenges in my own life.
How do you hope to use your Harvard education in the future?
I want to use a Harvard education to study how environmental policy and technology can work together. I first became interested after researching how rising sea levels were affecting small coastal towns in my state. Seeing photos of flooded streets made the problem feel immediate, not abstract.
At Harvard, I would explore courses that combine science and policy, such as environmental economics. I’d also be eager to get involved with student groups focused on sustainability and to work with faculty researching how communities can adapt to climate change.
After college, I hope to work on developing and implementing policies that support both the environment and the people most affected by climate change. My goal is to create practical solutions that protect natural resources while also addressing social equity. Harvard’s interdisciplinary approach would give me the tools to do both.
Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you.
My roommates would notice three things right away.
First, I have a green thumb. I’ve kept a cactus alive for years, but most of my other plants are a work in progress. I’d love to keep a few small ones in our dorm.
Second, I’m always listening to music. My playlists range from classic rock to chill study beats, and I enjoy sharing new finds with friends. Music is my way to relax, whether I’m cooking, studying, or just hanging out.
Third, I like to try new hobbies, even when I’m not good at them. Recently I’ve attempted juggling, baking bread, and sketching.
The results are mixed, but I don’t mind laughing at myself.
Altogether, my roommates would see someone curious, lighthearted, and eager to make our space feel welcoming.